This review covers Dr. Dana Suskind’s new book ‘Human Raised,’ which argues that AI technologies pose unique risks to early childhood development because they can mimic human interaction during the critical brain-building years of ages zero to six. Suskind contends that authentic human connection, despite its messiness, builds essential skills like empathy and resilience that AI cannot replicate, and proposes a framework prioritizing human connection, owning imperfections, protecting early years, and enhancing rather than replacing human interaction. The piece notes that ‘good enough’ parenting produces stronger developmental outcomes than intensive optimization, and observes that many technology creators restrict their own children’s access to these systems.
